A long-running 'bottleneck' on the Harrogate rail line is back under the spotlight after a minister said key improvements have not been ruled out.
Tom Gordon, the Liberal Democrat MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, raised concerns in Parliament about repeated disruption on the Harrogate to York line - much of it linked to a section of single track that regularly causes delays.
He drew attention to the York Area Capacity Scheme, a long-planned project intended to ease congestion on the route, which has been paused indefinitely.
Tom urged the Government to reconsider the scheme or, failing that, to bring forward alternative proposals to improve capacity and reliability for passengers.
Responding on behalf of the Government, the minister said neither the York Area Capacity Scheme nor other potential upgrades had been ruled out.
The minister added that officials would continue to examine options to dual the single-track section between Knaresborough and York as part of future infrastructure planning.
There was also agreement to continue discussions on the possibility of extending platforms for trains arriving from Harrogate, a change that could allow for longer trains and increased capacity.
Tom said the prospect of progress was welcome but stressed that action was needed.
He said:
“Dualling the line between Knaresborough and York, along with creating a new platform for trains arriving into York from Harrogate, would transform journeys for local commuters.
“Right now, passengers face constant delays, unreliable services, and capacity issues. This needs to change – especially if the Government is serious about delivering growth and improving transport in the North.”
He added:
“I was encouraged to hear the Minister confirm these projects are still on the table.
"In my meeting with the Minister for Rail, I’ll keep the pressure to make sure our community gets the modern, reliable transport network it deserves.”
Tom is due to meet the Minister for Rail to press the case for the upgrades, arguing that improved rail links are essential to unlocking economic potential and supporting wider growth ambitions in the region.
Santa to visit Harrogate vets for charity festive open day
Pannal Players announce final pantomime after 40 years
Man jailed for six years after stabbing victim in neck outside pub near Ripon
£3.4m bailout saved council-owned Brierley Homes from collapse, say councillors
Man jailed after violent assault on former partner in Harrogate
Police appeal to identify Kex Gill cyclist
WATCH: Satisfying transformation as Harrogate Cenotaph is cleaned
Yorkshire Garden Centres raises more than £106,000 for children's hospice
Earlier fireworks and live music planned for Your Harrogate Stray Bonfire
Harrogate Taekwondo master "honoured" to represent UK in Sweden and Croatia
Yorkshire Water boss to step down after lowest possible environmental rating
Harrogate Poundland faces uncertainty as retailer appoints administrators
£65million Leeds Bradford Airport railway station described as ‘critical’ for region
Defending Harrogate Gateway scheme was important for town's future, says councillor
Skipton and Ripon MP criticises Budget over lack of support for rural communities
New 'Winter Warmers' campaign aims to get residents outdoors
Police appeal after cars damaged on Harrogate streets
Thousands expected in Harrogate for four-day craft show
Harrogate Mumbler to launch Welfare Hub at Stray Bonfire
'Push For Pudsey' sofa challenge to pass through Harrogate
